When it comes to heart-healthy foods, fish, nuts, or olive oil come to mind. Sea buckthorn has now been added to this list.
Experts from the University of Lodz (Poland) have discovered that extracts of sea buckthorn seeds can slow down the formation of blood clots. Moreover, roasted seeds showed the greatest effect, rather than raw ones. The results are reported in the journal Nutrients.
What the Scientists Found
The researchers found that sea buckthorn seeds contain a special compound — isorhamnetin. It weakens the activity of platelets and prevents them from binding tightly to proteins responsible for blood clotting.
So far, these results have only been obtained in laboratory conditions, so it is premature to use roasted seeds as a ready remedy against blood clots. Specialists note that large-scale clinical studies are necessary to confirm the effect.
Nevertheless, the work of Polish specialists demonstrates the potential of sea buckthorn as a natural source of anti-aggregants — substances that prevent the formation of blood clots.
How to Include Sea Buckthorn in Your Diet
Sea buckthorn berries are used to make juices, jams, and oils. Traditionally, sea buckthorn is recommended as a source of vitamins C, E, and B group, carotenoids, as well as omega acids. It helps strengthen the immune system during cold season, supports the skin, and accelerates wound healing.
